The cat does not have milk, what to do, how to feed? - briefly
If your cat is not producing milk or has stopped nursing its kittens, it's crucial to intervene promptly. You can hand-feed the kittens using a commercial kitten milk replacer (KMR) and a syringe, following the instructions on the product label for proper feeding techniques and frequencies.
The cat does not have milk, what to do, how to feed? - in detail
When a cat is unable to nurse from its mother, it's crucial for owners or caregivers to take immediate action to ensure the kitten's survival and well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to feed and care for such a kitten:
Firstly, assess the situation to understand why the cat cannot nurse. Common reasons include the mother rejecting her litter, insufficient milk production, or health issues with the mother or the kittens. In some cases, the mother might be aggressive towards the kittens due to stress or inexperience.
If it's determined that the kitten needs to be hand-fed, the following steps should be taken:
-
Warmth and Comfort: Kittens are unable to regulate their body temperature effectively. Therefore, it is essential to keep them warm using a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Never place the kitten directly on the heat source; always use an insulating material like a blanket or towel.
-
Feeding: Kittens require specialized kitten milk replacer, available at pet stores and veterinary clinics. Avoid using cow's milk, as it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in kittens. The formula should be prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically mixing powder with warm water (around 90-105°F or 32-40°C).
-
Feeding Schedule: Newborn kittens need to be fed every 2-3 hours. As they grow older, the frequency can decrease gradually. It's crucial to maintain a consistent feeding schedule to ensure the kitten receives enough nutrition for growth and development.
-
Feeding Technique: Use a small bottle with a specialized kitten nursing nipple or a syringe without the needle. Hold the kitten in an upright position, with its head tilted slightly back. Gently place the nipple into the kitten’s mouth and allow it to suckle. If using a syringe, slowly release the formula into the kitten's mouth, allowing it to swallow naturally.
-
Burping: Just like human infants, kittens can ingest air during feeding, which may cause discomfort. Gently pat or rub the kitten’s back to help it burp. This should be done after each feeding session.
-
Stimulation of Elimination: Newborn kittens cannot eliminate waste on their own and rely on their mother to stimulate them. After feeding, use a soft, damp cloth or cotton swab to gently rub the kitten’s genital area. This will mimic the mother's tongue and encourage the kitten to urinate and defecate.
-
Monitoring Health: Keep an eye on the kitten's weight gain and overall health. A healthy kitten should gain weight consistently. If the kitten is not gaining weight, appears lethargic, or has diarrhea, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly.
-
Transitioning to Solid Food: As the kitten grows older (usually around 3-4 weeks), introduce small amounts of solid food designed for kittens. Gradually increase the quantity while decreasing the amount of milk replacer until the kitten is fully weaned onto solid food by about 6-8 weeks of age.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that a kitten deprived of its mother's milk receives the care and nutrition necessary for healthy growth and development. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to the specific needs of the kitten.